How Often Should Generators Be Tested?
Ever waited until the power’s out to find your generator won’t start? You’re not alone, mate. The short answer: generators should be tested monthly—because when you really need it, it better bloody work.
Lubrication and Component Health
Just like a car sitting idle too long, a generator can suffer when it's not run regularly. Oil settles, seals dry out, and moving parts can seize up. Testing your generator monthly keeps the fluids circulating and the engine ticking over properly. You don’t want to find out it’s jammed when the lights go out.
Regular checks help avoid long-term wear and save on costly repairs. If you’re in a dusty or humid environment like the Top End, that’s even more reason to stay on top of it.
Fuel Stabilisation
Fuel doesn’t stay fresh forever. In as little as 30 days, it can start to break down, especially in warmer Aussie climates.
When fuel goes stale, it clogs carburettors, gums up injectors, and makes your generator struggle to start—or not start at all. Add a stabiliser if you're storing fuel or not using the gen for a while. Better yet, fire it up monthly and burn through some of that petrol to keep things clean.
Battery Maintenance
Batteries lose charge over time, especially if the generator’s just sitting around. A flat battery is one of the most common reasons a generator won’t start in an emergency.
Monthly start-ups let the alternator recharge the battery and give you peace of mind. If your model has a trickle charger option, even better.
How Often Should Generators Be Load Tested?
How long should I run my generator for maintenance?
The sweet spot? Around 30 minutes each month. That’s enough time to get it up to operating temperature and flush out moisture.
Just idling it won’t cut it. You want it working under load—think of it like taking a dog for a walk instead of just letting it out in the yard. Give it something to do.
The Dangers of "Wet Stacking"
Running a generator without load—or for too short a time—can cause a condition called wet stacking. This means unburned fuel builds up in the exhaust, leading to black smoke, fouled plugs, and performance issues.
It’s like a smoker taking half a puff and not exhaling—eventually, the gunk builds up. Load testing burns that mess off and keeps your generator healthy. Make it part of your regular plan.
Signs a Generator Needs Professional Attention
Sometimes, DIY checks just won’t cut it. If you notice:
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Strange noises
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Excessive smoke
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Trouble starting
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Warning lights or error codes
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Leaks of any kind
…it’s time to call in a technician.
A professional service will run full diagnostics, check fuel quality, test the load properly, and spot issues you might miss. They’ll also help you stay compliant with Australian standards—especially critical in sectors like healthcare or mining.
In short, testing your generator monthly keeps it ready, avoids expensive surprises, and might just save your bacon when the power cuts out.
You might also like:
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- How to Plug a Generator Into a Caravan?
- What Is the Biggest Risk Associated With Portable Generators?
- How Do I Reset a Generator Circuit Breaker?
- How Do I Test Battery Voltage in Electric-Start Generators?
- Can Thermal Cameras Detect Generator Faults?
